Five vulnerable Democrats who previously voted against measures to strengthen border security have now seemingly changed their positions in light of seeking re-election. Following President Biden’s signing of an aid package to Ukraine and Israel, Reps. Golden, Gluesenkamp Perez, Peltola, Gonzalez, and Davis released a joint statement calling for order at the southern border. These Democrats had previously voted against the Secure the Border Act and efforts to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas. Gluesenkamp Perez, who previously made dismissive remarks about the border crisis, has since criticized Biden’s handling of the situation and supported legislation to address it.
Gonzalez, another Democrat, also made dismissive comments about the border crisis prior to the expiration of Title 42, which allowed officials to bar migrants during health crises. Despite previous comments, Gonzalez has acknowledged improvements along the border and defended the actions of Biden and Mayorkas. He was one of 154 Democrats who voted against the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act and one of 201 who voted against the Schools Not Shelters Act. Peltola, on the other hand, voted in favor of the latter measure but emphasized the need to address the border crisis without harming American agriculture.
In response to criticisms and questions about their previous positions on border security, each of these Democrats has attempted to clarify their stances and highlight their efforts to address the crisis. Gluesenkamp Perez has introduced legislation to restore operational control at the southern border, while Gonzalez has emphasized the positive impact of recent policies. Peltola and Davis have also expressed their commitment to addressing the border crisis while considering the potential impacts on American agriculture. Despite their past votes and remarks, these Democrats are now aligning themselves with calls for stronger action to address the continuing challenges at the border.
Recent data from CBP shows an increase in total encounters at the southern border during the first six months of fiscal year 2024 compared to the previous year. This surge in encounters highlights the ongoing challenges and complexities of the border crisis that lawmakers such as Golden, Gluesenkamp Perez, Peltola, Gonzalez, and Davis are now addressing. As they navigate the re-election process, these Democrats are adapting their positions to reflect the evolving situation at the border and the demands of their constituents. With the 2024 elections looming, their responses to the border crisis will likely play a significant role in shaping their electoral prospects and future policy decisions.
